Based on an initial phase of a study conducted in 1993 that surveyed 1,200 two-year colleges to describe the scope and character of work-based learning programs already in existence, phase 2 sought a more in-depth understanding of selected exemplary work-based learning programs. Ten programs in eight two-year colleges were identified for further in-depth analysis using qualitative methods. Case studies were conducted in field visits. Programs studied included the following: early childhood education, tree fruit production, management and marketing, resort management, culinary arts, nursing technology, and manufacturing technology. The programs used a variety of methods and ranged in size from 10 students to more than 300 students. Common factors found among the programs included the following: (1) strong program leadership; (2) exclusive connections between the program and its environment; (3) frequent and effective communication with local employers; (4) beliefs about program excellence; (5) an effective school-based learning component; (6) adequate and diverse financial support; and (7) innovative program and pedagogical features. Six recommendations were offered concerning the following areas: provision of adequate and stable funding; the need for educators to play a more prominent role in preparing employers and employees to provide meaningful work-based learning opportunities, especially for adults; the merits of reconfigured and strengthened cooperative education models in which adults take responsibility for their own learning; the need for senior college administrators to show more active and visible support for work-based leaning; and the need for more systemic approaches involving the creation of standards and credentialing mechanisms and state or regional delivery strategies. (Contains 42 references. Half the document consists of two appendices: profiles of the 10 case study programs and information on research team members.) (KC)